The High Court has granted popular Mugithi musician and police officer Samuel Muchoki, alias Samidoh, anticipatory bail and stopped his arrest over accusations of deserting duty.

However, the court directed him to surrender his passport amid an ongoing disciplinary inquiry by the National Police Service (NPS).

Delivering the ruling on Friday, July 25, the court set his bail at Sh200,000, offering temporary protection from arrest while the matter is under review.

Samidoh, who is currently in the United States for a music tour, has been the subject of a police probe after reportedly failing to report to his new posting at the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil. He was redeployed there in May 2025.

According to a report from ASTU’s commandant, the officer was expected to resume duty on May 27 after his official leave ended. However, authorities say he did not return to his station and has not been accounted for since.

“Efforts to trace him have been unsuccessful. He has now been absent without leave for over ten days and is officially declared a deserter as of June 6, 2025,” the report noted.

The disciplinary action came shortly after a viral video captured Samidoh performing at a public event where crowds were heard chanting political slogans, including “Wantam” a term interpreted as a call to deny President William Ruto a second term.

Samidoh appeared to engage with the crowd during the incident, which reportedly raised concerns among top police commanders.

The video is said to have influenced his abrupt transfer to Gilgil, and the subsequent move by NPS to initiate disciplinary proceedings over potential breach of Service Standing Orders.

While abroad, the musician has shared moments from his U.S. tour, including performances at the Kikuyu cultural festival “Ngemi Cia Ruraya” in Seattle, Washington.

The event was attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his wife Pastor Dorcas. Samidoh has also appeared in other diaspora events, posting photos and videos of his shows and time with family.

The court's decision now offers the artist temporary reprieve as investigations into his conduct continue.